Work begins on Humboldt Park homeless center’s expansion

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CHICAGO -- Six years of planning and fundraising became a reality for La Casa Norte Friday.

In under two years, a five story, five lot mixed use facility will be built in Humboldt Park. It will expand the organizations mission to help young people and families dealing with homelessness.

Sol Flores, the organizations executive director, says La Casa Norte serves about 2000 people every year, with the new 50,000 square foot facility that will include housing units as well as a community center. 4000 people will find assistance within a year of opening in everything from hot food to health care to employment training.

Mayor Emanuel joined several other city leaders Friday for the ground breaking on the 18.5 million dollar facility. The money was made possible through private donors, TIF funds and loans.